The Boston Celtics are on the verge of closing out their first-round playoff series against the Orlando Magic as they prepare for Game 5 at TD Garden on April 29, 2025. With a commanding 3-1 series lead, the Celtics have the opportunity to advance to the second round of the NBA playoffs with a victory tonight.
Tip-off for this crucial matchup is set for 8:30 p.m. ET, and fans can catch the action on NBA TV and NBC Sports Boston, as well as stream it through platforms like Sling TV and YouTube TV. For those who prefer radio, the game will be broadcasted on 98.5 FM The Sports Hub, with additional coverage available on ROCK 92.9 for select games, and WPRV 790 AM for listeners in Providence.
The Celtics come into this game fresh off a decisive 107-98 victory in Game 4, where Jayson Tatum delivered a standout performance, scoring 37 points, including 16 in a dominant fourth quarter. Tatum, who has averaged 30.0 points, 12.3 rebounds, and 3.7 assists during the postseason, has been a key player for Boston. His ability to perform under pressure has been critical for the Celtics, especially after recovering from a wrist injury that sidelined him for Game 2.
On the other side, the Orlando Magic, the No. 7 seed in the Eastern Conference, are looking to stave off elimination. They managed to secure a win in Game 3 but have struggled to keep pace with the Celtics in the following games. Paolo Banchero, who has been a standout for the Magic, is averaging 32.0 points, 8.3 rebounds, and 3.8 assists in the playoffs, while teammate Franz Wagner contributes an impressive 26.0 points, 5.0 rebounds, and 5.7 assists per game. However, the duo's efficiency has been a concern, especially after combining for just 51 points on 40% shooting in Game 4.
As the Celtics aim to close out the series, they are also facing potential challenges with Jaylen Brown's status. The shooting guard's playing time is uncertain due to a knee injury, which could impact Boston's offensive strategy. Brown has averaged 23.0 points, 8.0 rebounds, and 2.3 assists in the playoffs, making him a significant contributor to the team's success.
The stakes are high for both teams. A win for the Celtics would send them into the second round, where they would face the winner of the New York Knicks-Detroit Pistons series, currently led by the Knicks 3-1. Conversely, the Magic are desperate to push the series back to Orlando for Game 6, scheduled for May 1, 2025, where they would look to build momentum in front of their home crowd.
Historically, the Celtics have been a dominant force in the playoffs, and they are looking to extend their streak of first-round series victories to four consecutive seasons. The Magic, however, have not advanced past the first round since the 2009-10 season, making this matchup particularly critical for their franchise.
As the teams prepare for what promises to be an intense battle, fans are reminded of the playoff atmosphere at TD Garden, where the Celtics have won both of their home games in this series. The home crowd is expected to be a significant factor, providing the energy and support needed to help propel the Celtics to victory.
With the series hanging in the balance, all eyes will be on the court tonight as the Celtics look to finish off the Magic and secure their place in the next round of the playoffs. Will they succeed, or will the Magic find a way to extend the series? Only time will tell as the clock ticks down to tip-off.
In summary, the Celtics are poised to close out their series against the Magic in front of a raucous home crowd, while the Magic are fighting to keep their playoff hopes alive. The outcome of Game 5 will not only determine who advances but will also set the tone for the remainder of the playoffs.
